Method of and architecture for a virtual wireless network

ABSTRACT

A virtual wireless network including a server running a home location register (HLR), the home location register being associated solely with a virtual wireless network operator that does not have any licensed frequency spectrum, but provides wireless services to a subscriber by using the wireless basestations of a wireless network operator that does have licensed frequency spectrum.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.12/281,853, filed Feb. 9, 2009, which claims the priority ofPCT/GB2007/000929, filed on Mar. 16, 2007, which claims priority to GB0605283, filed Mar. 16, 2006, the entire contents of which are fullyincorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates in general terms to virtual wireless networks. Itrelates in particular to a method of, and architectures for, virtualwireless networks interfacing and interconnecting with wireless networksand public access networks. In- and out-going, voice and data calls canbe handled. It relates also to interfacing and connecting wirelessdevices to both virtual and non-virtual wireless networks for in- andout-going SMS, voice and data call routing.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Wireless devices can now handle voice and/or data, allowing simplexand/or duplex voice calls, video calls, text messaging, internetbrowsing. Some wireless communication devices can now also handlevoice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP) calls, and others are able to handlemultimedia (voice, video, graphics) calls through wireless networksand/or through wireless networks connected to the internet or mediaservers.

A wireless network operator owns and maintains physical basestations andhas licensed frequency spectrum: these are defining properties of awireless network operator. A ‘virtual wireless network operator’ incontrast has no physical basestations. A ‘virtual wireless network’(sometimes called a ‘virtual network’) operates with a simple commercialagreement with a wireless network operator; virtual networks operate inthe home country of the wireless network that they have an agreementwith, basically making use of the Home Location Register (HLR), thebilling system and the radio infrastructure of the wireless network butretaining the ability to bill their own customers directly. A HomeLocation Register (HLR) is a database owned and maintained by a networkoperator.

Different types of calls, initiated by wireless devices can berestricted for some or most outgoing traffic types; for example, voiceand data calls, as well as internet web browsing, can be restricted bythe call tariffs made available by the wireless network that issubscribed to. These wireless networks could be operated by atraditional wireless network operator or a virtual network operator. Therestrictions can even limit which web servers the user is actuallyallowed to access; in most or all cases the restrictions will limit theusers in their home country to only one wireless network, i.e. the homewireless network to which the user is subscribed to or its associatedvirtual wireless network.

What is needed is a method that gives users, in particular those usersof wireless devices subscribed to a specific wireless network or virtualwireless network in their home country, a choice of the call set-uproute(s), and also gives a choice of viewing any desired web server orweb-page, and also users to initiate outgoing calls at the tariff oftheir choice and through any of the wireless network(s) available intheir home country (as well as abroad when roaming outside of their homecountry).

With existing systems however, this is very difficult because mobilenetwork operators have little economic incentive to provide end-userswith the freedom to choose the cheapest network for each call set-uproute for any outgoing traffic, such as outgoing-SMS, -voice call, -datacall. In fact, they have every economic incentive to make this verydifficult. One mechanism that entrenches the network operators' abilityto restrict such freedom is the fact that every network operator ineffect has considerable control over each subscriber because eachsubscriber with a particular network operator has to be registered inthe home location register (HLR) of that operator in order to receiveservice. The ownership and control that a network operator has over itsHLR constitutes a major entry barrier to competitors, especially virtualwireless network operators, seeking to offer lower cost services,

Before summarising the invention, we will explain some background terms.

A Home Location Register (HLR) is a database that is, conventionally,owned and maintained by a wireless network operator. It contains mobilesubscriber information for all subscribers to that operator. HLRsubscriber information includes the International Mobile SubscriberIdentity (IMSI), service subscription information, location information(the identity of the currently serving Visitor Location Register (VLR)to enable the routing of mobile-terminated calls), service restrictionsand supplementary services information. The HLR also initiatestransactions with VLRs to complete incoming calls and to updatesubscriber data.

The IMSI is a unique non-dialable number allocated to each mobilesubscriber that identifies the subscriber and his or her operatorsubscription. The IMSI is stored in the Subscriber Identity Module(SIM). The IMSI is made up of three parts: (1) the mobile country code(MCC) consisting of three digits, (2) the Mobile Network Code (MNC)consisting of two digits, and (3) the Mobile Subscriber Identity Number(MSIN) with up to 10 digits.

A Visitor Location Register (VLR) is a database owned and maintained bya wireless mobile operator. It contains temporary information aboutmobile subscribers that are currently located in a geographic areaserved by that mobile operator, but whose Home Location Register (HLR)is elsewhere.

When a mobile subscriber roams away from his home location and into aremote location (typically to a different country), SS7 messages areused to obtain information about the subscriber from the HLR, and tocreate a temporary record for the subscriber in the VLR. There isusually one VLR per operator. The VLR automatically updates the HLR withthe new location information, which it does using an SS7 Location UpdateRequest Message. The Location Update Message is routed to the HLRthrough the SS7 network, based on the global title translation of theIMSI that is stored within the SCCP Called Party Address portion of themessage. The HLR responds with a message that informs the VLR whetherthe subscriber should be provided service in the new location.

The following acronyms are used in this specification:

AuC Authentication Centre EIR Equipment Identity Register GMSCS GatewayMobile Switching Centre Switch HLR Home Location Register HLRvn HomeLocation Register of a virtual network IF_B Wireless Device interfaceIF_C Public Access Network interface IF_D Home Location Registerinterface IF_F Services Mobile Switching Centre Switch interface IF-AGMSCS to SMSCS interface IF-E Media Gateway interface IMSI InternationalMobile Subscriber Identity IN Intelligent Network sub-module LHWN LocalHome Wireless Network MG Media Gateway MSC Mobile Switching Centre PANPublic Access Network PREPOS Billing and services management for pre andpost paid end-users PSIM Proprietary SIM (includes multiple SIMsub-modules; e.g. a local SIM sub-module and a roaming SIM sub- module,with different IMSI) RAN Radio Access Network RHWN Roaming Home WirelessNetwork SIM Subscriber Identity Module SIML Local SIM SIMR Roaming SIMSMSCS Services Mobile Switching Centre Switch VN Virtual WirelessNetwork WD Wireless Device WDvn Wireless Device using the HLR of a VN WNWireless Network

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A first aspect of the invention is an apparatus forming part of avirtual wireless network, the apparatus including a server running ahome location register (HLR), the home location register beingassociated solely with a virtual wireless network operator that does nothave any licensed frequency spectrum, but provides wireless services toa subscriber by using the wireless basestations of a wireless networkoperator that does have licensed frequency spectrum.

Where the subscriber operates a wireless device with two or more IMSIs,then the apparatus can be operable to manage remotely the selection ofan appropriate IMSI on the device, for example based lowest cost callrouting or on features available when one particular IMSI is used andnot another. The home location register itself may manage the remoteselection of an appropriate IMSI on the device.

In an implementation, the apparatus includes one or more of thefollowing:

-   -   multiple home location registers.    -   an equipment identity register sub-module.    -   an authentication centre sub-module.    -   a media gateway.    -   an interface to a public access network.    -   a billing and services management module for pre and post paid        end-users.    -   a gateway mobile switching centre switch.    -   an interface to enable communication with the wireless network        operator.    -   an interface to enable communication with any incoming calling        party; and any outgoing calling party registered with the home        location register.    -   an interface to enable communication using one or more of the        following: wireless networks public access networks; and via one        or more of the following: wireless interfaces and wired        interfaces.

An implementation of the apparatus is typically adapted to receivecommunications from wireless devices that access the apparatus via thewireless basestations of the wireless network operator. It can beadapted to communicate with a services mobile switching centre switchoperated by the wireless network operator.

It may also include a gateway mobile switching centre switch, adapted tocommunicate with the services mobile switching centre switch operated bythe wireless network operator. The gateway mobile switching centreswitch can communicate with the services mobile switching centre switchoperated by the wireless network operator when the subscriber is in itshome country.

The apparatus can also communicate with a services mobile switchingcentre switch operated by a roaming partner wireless network operator.The apparatus can include a gateway mobile switching centre switch tocommunicate with the services mobile switching centre switch operated bythe roaming partner wireless network operator. The gateway mobileswitching centre switch can interface with the services mobile switchingcentre switch of the roaming partner wireless network operator when theend-user user is not in its home country. The gateway mobile switchingcentre switch may also interface with the services mobile switchingcentre switch of the roaming partner wireless network operator when theend-user user is in its home country.

The home location register can communicate with a services mobileswitching centre switch of the wireless network operator. The homelocation register can also communicate with the services mobileswitching centre switch of a roaming partner wireless network operatorwhen the user is not in its home country.

The subscriber to the virtual wireless network operator typically has awireless device with a SIM that is registered to the home locationregister.

The apparatus can itself supply to a wireless device, indicative costsfor a future call, in response to a request from a subscriber for thatinformation. The indicative cost can include a saving or other pricecomparison for all available networks in response to a user inputting adestination number, to his wireless device.

The apparatus is also operable to determine the optimal routing of acall, involving any one or more of the following: wireless networks,fixed networks, servers and the internet.

The subscriber can determine which available wireless network is used toroute an outgoing call from that subscriber.

The apparatus can be co-located with at least some of the physicalinfrastructure of the wireless network.

Another aspect is a mobile communications system, which includes theapparatus as defined above, when used in combination with subscriberwireless devices that each have two or more IMSI numbers. A wirelessdevice can for example include multiple SIM sub-modules, such as a localSIM sub-module and a roaming SIM sub-module, each with a different IMSI.One SIM sub-module can be associated with the virtual wireless networkoperator and the other then associated with a wireless network operator.The wireless network operator can be the wireless network operator thatis associated with the virtual wireless network operator. One SIMsub-module can be associated with the virtual wireless network operatorand the other is then associated with a different virtual wirelessnetwork operator. Each virtual wireless network operator can be based ina different country.

Another approach is for the wireless device to include two separateSIMs, such as a local SIM and a roaming SIM, each with a different IMSI.One SIM can be associated with the virtual wireless network operator andthe other is associated with a wireless network operator. The wirelessnetwork operator can be the wireless network operator that is associatedwith the virtual wireless network operator. One SIM can be associatedwith the virtual wireless network operator and the other is thenassociated with a different virtual wireless network operator. Eachvirtual wireless network operator can be based in a different country.

A subscriber can choose which SIM or SIM sub-module to use. Further, theapparatus that forms part of the virtual wireless network can alsochoose which SIM or SIM sub-module is used. The home location registeritself may choose which SIM or SIM sub-module is used.

Another aspect is a method of routing calls from a wireless device,comprising the step of using an apparatus as defined above. A furtheraspect is a method of routing calls from a wireless device, comprisingthe step of using a system as defined above.

A final aspect is a wireless device when used in the system definedabove, the wireless device operating with two or more IMSI numbers.

An implementation of the invention gives each wireless device user thefreedom to choose the cheapest option for each call set-up route for anyoutgoing traffic (such as outgoing SMS, voice calls, data calls) andwould thus allow virtual wireless networks to expand operations byentering a least two commercial agreements with wireless networkoperators in the same country or in two or more different countries. Itwould also allow a virtual wireless network operator to attract wirelessdevice users in its home country and also in any country with whom anyassociated wireless network operators have a roaming agreement with.

In one implementation, there is a Virtual wireless Network (VN) in whichthe VN's Home Location Register (HLRvn) with its corresponding EquipmentIdentity Register (EIR) and Authentication Centre (AuC), identify andauthorise each individual registered Wireless Device (WD) with abuilt-in valid Subscriber Identity Module (SIM), assigned to the HLR ofthe VN. The VN includes a billing and services management module forprepaid and optionally for postpaid end-users (PREPOS). Each individualregistered Wireless Device (WD) is interconnected with the HLR; a MediaGateway (MG) has a digital interface (IF_E) and a VLR has a digitalinterface (IF_D). Both digital interfaces IF_D and IF_E are maininterfaces from the VN towards the Wireless Network (WN),interconnecting with the Mobile Switching Centre (MSC) or, moreparticularly, with the Services MSC Switch (SMSCS). Alternatively, bothdigital interfaces IF_D and IF_E from the VN can be connected to aGateway MSC Switch (GMSCS), if available, residing within the VN, whichin turn will interface with the WN, interconnecting the GMSCS of the VNthrough a digital interface (IF_A) with the SMSCS of the WN.

For any outgoing call, the WD, meaning any wireless device that has abuilt in SIM assigned to the HLR of the VN (herein also referred to as aWDvn), first establishes data communication through the wirelessinterface (IF_B), then through the Radio Access Network (RAN) and theservices SMSCS (both controlled by the WN), and then through theinterface IF_A, IF_D or IF_E, respectively with the GMSCS, HLR or MG,all three of which are controlled by the VN. At first, the VN willconfirm authentication and equipment identity registration and then theHLR will authorise such outgoing call initiated by the WD by recognisingthe SIM identification within the HLR's database (with it'scorresponding services assignment and credit availability) and route thecall through to the calling party, either

-   -   through the interface IF_D and the VN's own GMSCS to the        interface IF_C or IF_A depending where the calling party resides        or    -   though the interface IF_D and the WN's services MSC switch        (SMSCS) to the interface IF_C or to the digital interface (IF_F)        depending where the calling party resides.

When any 3^(rd) party (WD user from any WN, fixed network user or anyother WDvn user) calls any of the WDvn registered on the VN, then suchincoming call establishes communication through either the interfaceIF_B or IF_C (dependent on whether calling from a wireless network WN ora fixed network PAN), with the SMSCS of the WN. The SMSCS then in turncommunicates with the GMSCS of the VN, if available, and then with theHLR of the VN. The SMSCS communicates directly with the HLR of the VN ifthe GMSCS is not available. The HLR will then confirm authentication andequipment identity registration of the WDvn the 3^(rd) party wishes tocommunicate with. The HLR authorises such incoming call to thecorresponding WDvn by recognising the WDvn's SIM identification withinthe HLR's database with it's corresponding services assignment andcredit availability.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram and architecture of a communications system,and in particular of a virtual wireless network, with wireless devicescommunicating through a wireless interface to a wireless network(s) anda virtual wireless network, in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 2 and 3 shows two example implementations of the present inventionshowing the wireless virtual network (VN) and in particular theproprietary home location register of the virtual network (HLRvn),capable of managing one, two or more IMSIs associated with theproprietary subscriber identity module (PSIM) and wireless devices (WD)and (WDvn) associated with such VN, both with and without a built inPSIM.

FIGS. 4 to 13 are example implementations of the present inventionshowing the different wireless virtual network (VN) architectures,including the proprietary home location register of the virtual network(HLRvn) and wireless devices (WD) and (WDvn) associated with such VN,both with and without a built in proprietary subscriber identity module(PSIM). The VN can be located in the same country as the WN to which theVN interconnects with or in a different country. The WDvn can be locatedin the same country as the VN or WN to which it is associated with, orin a different country than the country where the VN or WN to which itis associated with is located.

FIGS. 14 and 15 shows two example implementations of the presentinvention that show higher level architectures that depart fromincorporating wireless virtual networks (VN) and associated wirelessdevices (WDvn), but are still within the different architectures ofprevious FIGS. 4 to 13.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Specifically, FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a wireless communicationssystem, which can be used to implement an embodiment of the presentinvention. For this exemplary embodiment, there is shown a wirelessdevice (WD), yet another wireless device (WDvn) with a built-in PSIM, awireless network (WN) and a Virtual Wireless Network (VN),interconnected between each other.

Voice and data communication between the WD and the wireless network isthrough the wireless interface IF-B, which in turn allows connection toany communication device connected, by wire or wirelessly, to thewireless network. The entire system can therefore include, but is notlimited to, a fixed network, an application server, a media server, avoice over IP network or even a different wireless network, or amultiple configuration of the previous; multiple wireless devices(WDvn), multiple wireless interfaces (IF-Bn), multiple wireless networks(WNn), multiple fixed networks through the public access network (PAN),multiple application servers, media servers, and multiple voice over IPnetworks.

Wireless device WDvn has an embedded PSIM. The WD is configured inaccordance with a combination of technologies used in the field ofhandheld wireless devices and personal digital handheld wirelessdevices, such as (but not limited to) wireless phones, cellular phones,mobile phones, hand held radio frequency digital communication devices,personal digital assistants and so called smart-phones, which cancommunicate with the wireless networks as described.

Virtual wireless network VN is configured in accordance with acombination of technologies used in the field of wireless digitalcommunications networks. It can include a Proprietary Sub-module with aHome Location Register virtual network (HLRvn) consisting of all or partor a combination or multiple of the following sub-modules:

-   -   Home Location Register (HLR), Sub-module:    -   Equipment Identity Register (EIR), Sub-module:    -   Authentication Centre (AuC), Sub-module:

VN can also include:

-   -   Intelligent Network (IN), Sub-module:    -   Prepaid and optionally Postpaid services and billing Centre        (PREPOS), Sub-module:    -   Gateway “Mobile Switching Centre” Switch (GMSCS), Sub-module;    -   Media Gateway (MG).

The VN's Home Location Register (HLRvn), with its correspondingEquipment Identity Register (EIR) and Authentication Centre (AuC),identifies and authorises each individual registered Wireless Device(WD) with a built-in valid Subscriber Identity Module (SIM), assigned tothe HLR of the VN. The VN and the billing and services management modulefor prepaid and optionally for postpaid end-users (PREPOS), isinterconnected with the HLR. The Media Gateway (MG) has a digitalinterface (IF_E) and the VLR has a digital interface (IF_D). Bothdigital interfaces IF_D and IF_E are main interfaces from the VN towardsthe Wireless Network's (WN) interconnection with the Mobile SwitchingCentre (MSC) or more the Services MSC Switch (SMSCS). Alternatively,both digital interfaces IF_D and IF_E from the VN can be connected to aGateway MSC Switch (GMSCS), if available, residing within the VN, whichin turn will interface with the WN, interconnecting the GMSCS of the VNthrough a digital interface (IF_A) with the SMSCS of the WN.

The WD (meaning any wireless device that has a built-in SIM assigned tothe HLR of the VN), also referred to as WDvn in this specification,initially establishes, for any outgoing call, data communication throughthe wireless interface (IF_B) and through the Radio Access Network (RAN)and the services SMSCS, the latter two items both belonging to the WN.From there, it communicates though the interface IF_A, IF_D or IF_E, tothe GMSCS, HLR or MG, (with all three of the GMSCS, HLR or MG belongingto the VN).

As a first step, the VN will confirm authentication and equipmentidentity registration and then the HLR will authorise such outgoing callinitiated by the WD by recognising the SIM identification within theHLR's database and it's corresponding services assignment and creditavailability. The VN will then route the call through to the callingparty, either:

-   -   through the interface IF_D and the VN's own GMSCS to the        interface IF_C or IF_A, depending where the calling party        resides. IF_C routes the call onto the PAN and hence may be very        suitable for a long distance connection or if the recipient has        no mobile telephone. IF_A is especially suitable where the        recipient has a mobile telephone on the same network as the        caller and is in the same country. Or    -   though the interface IF_D and the WN's services MSC switch        (SMSCS) to the interface IF_C or to the digital interface (IF_F)        depending where the calling party resides.

When any 3^(rd) party (WD user from any WN, fixed network user or anyother WDvn user) calls any of the WDvn registered on the VN, then suchincoming call establishes communication with the SMSCS of the WN througheither the interface IF_B when calling from a wireless network WN orinterface IF_C when calling from a fixed network PAN. The SMSCS then inturn communicates with the GMSCS of the VN, if available, and then withthe HLR of the VN or otherwise directly with the HLR of the VN. The HLRthen will confirm authentication and equipment identity registration ofthe WDvn the 3^(rd) party wishes to communicate with. The HLR authorisessuch incoming call to the corresponding WDvn by recognising the WDvn'sSIM identification within the HLR's database with it's correspondingservices assignment and credit availability.

FIGS. 2 and 3 show two different preferred embodiments of the virtualwireless network architecture and interconnections and in particular theProprietary Sub-module: Home Location Register virtual network (HLRvn).In the context of the foregoing, the drawings are self explanatory,basically showing some examples of the different combinations of thecomposition of a HLRvn by combining sub-modules. In particular, theproprietary application module (PSIM) of the invention as shown in FIG.3 allows for the integration of the PSIM within a single subscriberidentity module (SIM) capable of handling at least two differentsubscriber identities corresponding, respectively to the LS and the RSas described.

FIGS. 4 to 13, show some of the preferred integration embodiments of theProprietary Sub-module: Home Location Register virtual network (HLRvn)within the architecture of a virtual wireless network (VN) and/or theproprietary application module (PSIM) within a wireless device (WDvn) ofthe invention. In the context of the foregoing, these are selfexplanatory, basically showing the integration of a HLRvn and/or thePSIM within a virtual wireless network and a wireless devicerespectively and both, within the over-all architecture, interconnectedand/or communicating with one or more wireless networks WN.

FIGS. 14 to 15 show some of the preferred integration embodiments of theinvention at a macro level; the architectures and interconnections ofthe embodiments of the present invention as shown previously in FIGS. 4to 14, are combined.

One of the preferred embodiments of the present invention and itsadvantages are best understood by referring to FIG. 11. Essentially, wehave a method and an architecture for a virtual wireless network(s) andits interfacing and interconnecting with wireless network(s) and publicaccess network(s) for in- and out-going, voice- and data-calls. We havealso a method and apparatus for interfacing and connecting wirelessdevices and a virtual and non-virtual wireless network(s) for in- andout-going SMS, voice and data call routing. This interfaces and connectsa handheld wireless device associated with a virtual wireless networkand a wireless network; it allows for the setting up of calls inaccordance with the user's own choice of routing, with any 3^(rd) partyend user connected to wireless networks, fixed networks, servers or theinternet.

The WDvn with a built-in PSIM establishes data communication, betweenthe WDvn and a wireless network coupled to virtual wireless network VNassociated with either the Local SIM (SIML) or Roaming SIM (SIMR)identities of the WDvn: the device may include two separate SIMS—forexample a so-called ‘ghost’ SIM holder that allows two SIMs to be usedin the same device. Each SIM will have a different IMSI; one will beassociated with the VN; the other will be associated with a differentVN, or the WN or a different WN. The choice will be a commerciallydriven one; in essence it is about providing the end-user withflexibility and access to lower tarriffs or charges.

An alternative implementation uses a PSIM. In the PSIM, the SIML andSIMR functions are integrated. For example, a single SIM (e.g. in theconventional single SIM package format) could include two separate SIMsub-modules, each associated with a different VN, or one associated witha VN and the other with a WN: there are many permutations; the objectiveis to give the end-user flexibility and lower tariffs and charges.

As a first step, the PSIM chooses a SIML and allows the WD to providelocation updates to the HLRvn each time the PSIM (built into such WDvn)changes subscriber identity (SIML or SIMR) or simply each time the WDvnchanges wireless network name or from wireless network country or regionor state.

When the WDvn is in the home country associated with the Local SIM(SIML), the PSIM establishes data communication between the WD and awireless network (WN). As a first step, a PAM selects the Local SIM(SIML) for location updates with its home virtual location register(HLRvn) attached to its local home wireless network (LHWN), associatedwith the Local SIM, each time the WD powers-on. The PAM is a moduleresident in the WDvn and that controls communications from the WDvn tothe network; one task is to control the operation of the local SIMsub-modules SIML and SIMR. This approach allows all incoming traffic tobe associated with the Local SIM when the PSIM switches from the LocalSIM to the Roaming SIM for location updates with a visitor locationregister (VLR) attached to any of the available wireless networks (WN,WN1 or WNn), associated with such Roaming SIM. This can occur any timethe WDvn user chooses manually; or optionally automatically, prior toany time the WDvn user is about to initiate outgoing traffic, such asoutgoing voice and/or data calls and outgoing SMS.

This allows the WDvn to make use of any of the available local wirelessnetworks, based in the home country of the Local SIM because the VN canroute calls over any of the various wireless networks it has agreementswith. Associating the WDvn with the Roaming SIM means that the WDvnoutgoing traffic is at the roaming tariffs established between thevirtual wireless network associated wireless network (RHWN), based in adifferent country than the country of the Local SIM, and each individuallocal wireless network (LHWN or LWN1 to LWN).

The PSIM will, after ending each originated outgoing traffic, switchtowards the Local SIM for location updates with its virtual homelocation register (HLRvn) attached to its local home wireless network(LHWN) when the WDvn is in its Local SIM home country. The switch can beautomatic or manual; the WDvn can have a built in PSIM, or can have,built in, two individual SIML and SIMR, with switching between themthrough an internal user menu displayed on the WDvn or an externalswitch on the WDvn. This allows the WDvn to receive any incoming trafficat no charge as ‘calling party pays’ is applied by its local homewireless network (LHWN) and its virtual home wireless network (VN1).Alternatively and optionally, there can be location updates with avisitor location register (VLR) attached to a roaming wireless networkwhen the WDvn is in a country different from the one associated with theLocal SIM, allowing the WDvn to receive any incoming traffic at thetariff rate established between its virtual home wireless network (VN1)and its associated local home wireless network (LHWN) and the roamingwireless network for such incoming roaming calls. The WDvn user alwayshas the option to choose which sub-module of the SIM (Local SIMsub-module or Roaming SIM sub-module) or which of the at least twosubscriber identities within the PSIM it will use, for any of itsincoming and/or outgoing traffic.

It should be reasonably clear from the preceding disclosures that thepresent invention provides a method and architectures for a virtualwireless network(s) and its interfacing and interconnecting withwireless network(s) and public access network(s) for in- and out-going,voice- and data-calls. It also provides a method and apparatus ofinterfacing and connecting a wireless device(s) and a virtual andnon-virtual wireless network(s) for in- and out-going SMS, voice anddata call(s) routing.

An implementation of the invention provides an advantage allowing anywireless device (WD) with a built-in proprietary subscriber identitymodule (PSIM) and/or a virtual wireless network with a build inProprietary Sub-module: Home Location Register virtual network (HLRvn)and any wireless network (WN) and public access network (PAN) to beinterconnected through the existing wireless interfaces using any one ofthe at least two SIM identities, if available, such as a Local SIM(SIML) or Roaming SIM (SIMR) or the PSIM. Moreover this implementationprovides an advantage allowing any wireless device WDvn, associated withthe HLRvn or VN, with a built-in PSIM to choose the call routing forboth in- and out-going calls.

This ability to send communications between the SIML and/or SIMR, thePSIM, a wireless device (WDvn) associated with the VN and its HLRvn, anda virtual wireless network (VN) and its associated wireless network(WNn), is particularly advantageous for data and voice calls andoptionally SMS routing; currently freedom of choice by the end user isrestricted. But choice is now fully in the hand of the end user of anyvirtual wireless network for any WDvn with a built-in PSIM.

Where the PSIM(s) resides in the wireless end-users wireless device(s)(WDvn) and/or where the HLRvn(s) would reside in the virtual wirelessnetwork(s) (VN), this could in effect allow the setting up of a marketcompetitive “mobile virtual network” (MVNO), a “virtual telecomsoperator” (VTO) or a “virtual telecoms provider (VTP), thus introducingmore competition in the wireless and/or cellular market place,benefiting end-users. And this is without the need for any wirelessdevice and/or wireless handheld user to change its current localsubscriber identity number subscription (SIML), with its current homewireless network operator in the country the end-user resides in. Thatuser can benefit from the advantages of this invention by simplyembedding a PSIM into his WD or simply by subscribing to the VN, makinguse of the benefits as described. This allows the end-user to keep itsoriginal phone number “subscriber identity” that is:

-   -   associated with the SIML of the corresponding local home        wireless network (LHWN) or    -   associated with the virtual network (VN1) with a built-in HLRvn,        based in the country (Country A) where the end-user resides,

whilst benefiting from the advantageous tariffs whenever applicable forhis originated outgoing calls:

-   -   associated with the SIMR and the corresponding roaming home        wireless network (RHWN) or    -   associated with the virtual network (VN2) with a built-in HLRvn        based in a different country (Country B), when the end-user of a        WDvn with a built-in PSIM or with built-in LSIM and RSIM is in        his home country where he resides (Country A) or    -   even when he is in a different country then the one where he        resides, traditionally referred to as roaming (meaning the SIML        is roaming); in the embodiment of this invention the SIMR is        almost always roaming.

The present invention is applicable with or without the PSIM, althoughwhen the PSIM is used, the benefits can be greater: the PSIM should beused wherever such inclusion is practical and beneficial commercially.

The architecture as described allows scalability: where the virtualnetwork architecture and combinations thereof, interconnected towireless network(s) and/or public access network(s) and/or Roaming SIMs(RS) and/or PSIM, can be the same for any country with whom theassociated roaming wireless network has roaming agreements with, andwhere the tariffs for outgoing traffic are more advantageous incomparison with the tariffs of outgoing calls tariffs with Local SIMs insuch countries.

This invention can apply partly or fully, by simply substituting in eachdifferent country, the Local SIM, as described within this invention,with the actual Local SIM (LS) identity of each individual end-user ofsuch different countries. This invention can apply partly or fully, bysimply substituting in each different country the Local SIM, asdescribed within this invention, with the actual Local SIM (LS) identityof each individual end-user of such different countries without the useof a PSIM or two subscriber identities. This means using only one localsubscriber identity (SIM) associated with the virtual network with abuilt-in Proprietary Home Location Register virtual network (HLRvn).

Summary of Optional Implementation Details

The following are optionally present in a preferred implementation.

An implementation provides a method for interfacing and interconnectinga virtual wireless network (VN) with a wireless network (WN) using aproprietary architecture(s) of the VN and a proprietary architecture ofthe interconnection between one or several proprietary VNs with one orseveral WNs. The VN is capable of communicating with any incoming and/oroutgoing calling party and in particular communicating from and toWireless Devices (WDvn) associated with the VN. A proprietary virtualnetwork architecture (VN) is capable of communicating with Wirelessdevices (WD) through Wireless Networks (WN) and/or through Public AccessNetworks (PAN), through a wireless interfaces (IF-B) and/or a wiredinterface (IF_C) respectively.

WDvn, WD, WD1 to WDn are wireless devices and/or wireless handhelddevices in any available current and future wireless technologiesrespectively, with at least one or more Subscriber Identity Modules(SIM) incorporated.

IF_B, IF_B1 to IF_Bn are wireless interfaces in any available currentand future wireless technologies respectively.

IF_C, IF_C1 to IF_Cn and IF_G, IF_G1 to IF_Gn and IF_H are wired and/orwireless interfaces in any available current and future wirelesstechnologies respectively.

IF_A, IF_D, IF_E, IF_F, IF_I are digital interfaces in any availablecurrent and future wireless technologies respectively.

WN, WN1 to WNn are wireless networks in any available current and futurewireless technologies respectively, with at least one or more RadioAccess Network (RAN) incorporated.

VN, VN1, VN2 to VNn are virtual wireless networks in any availablecurrent and future wireless and/or digital technologies respectively.

Any individual or multiple VN may be located in a different locationthan the WN it will interconnect and communicate with. Alternatively, itmay be co-located or built-in additionally or alternatively into any WNor any such other wireless- or fixed-network.

Any individual or multiple VN may consist of all of the followingsub-modules or any single or multiple combination or an equivalent ofeach such sub-module(s) performing a similar function within the overallmethod of this invention:

Proprietary Sub-module; Home Location Register virtual network (HLRvn)

Sub-module; Home Location Register (HLR)

Sub-module; Equipment Identity Register (EIR)

Sub-module; Authentication Centre (AuC)

Sub-module; Intelligent Network (IN)

Sub-module; Prepaid and optionally Postpaid services and billing Centre(PREPOS)

Sub-module; Gateway “Mobile Switching Centre” Switch (GMSCS)

Sub-module; Media Gateway (MG)

A VN is made of a GMSCS which is connected and communicates with an HLR,EIR, and AuC, through an interface IF_D, and a MG and a IN through aninterface IF_E and IF_I respectively. The previous mentioned HLR is alsoconnected and communicates with a PREPOS. The VN has two externalinterfaces, IF_A and IF_C, interconnected and communicating with itsinternal GMSCS, which interconnect and communicate with an externalSMSCS of a WN and a PAN respectively.

A proprietary HLRvn is made of a HLR, EIR, and AuC, either integrated asone device or as individual devices interconnected and communicatingbetween them, and such previous mentioned HLR is also connected andcommunicating with a PREPOS. The HLRvn as described in this paragraphhas one external interface, IF_D, interconnected and communicating withits internal HLR, which interconnects and communicates with an externalSMSCS of a WN.

A VN can be made of a single or multiple HLRvn. The VN may have oneexternal interface, IF_D, interconnected and capable of communicatingwith its internal HLR, to then interconnect and communicate with anexternal SMSCS of a WN.

A VN can be made of a single or multiple HLRvn and a single or multipleMG. This VN can have has two external interfaces, IF_D and IF_E,interconnected and capable of communicating with an external SMSCS of aWN.

A proprietary subscriber identity module (PSIM) is capable ofcommunicating with a Wireless Device (WD), associated with the VN, andany WN through a wireless interfaces (IF-B). Any PSIM is a subscriberidentity module in any current and future subscriber identity modulestechnology, with built-in proprietary services associated with at leastone or more VN.

Any individual or multiple PSIM integrates at least two differentsubscriber identity numbers, i.e. is associated with two unique anddifferent phone numbers, each associated with a different VN. Each VNmay be located within the same country or located in differentcountries; the two previously mentioned VN are either related orunrelated to each other.

Any individual or multiple PSIM integrates at least two differentsubscriber identity numbers, i.e. is associated with two unique anddifferent phone numbers, each associated with a VN and a WNrespectively. Each VN may be located within the same country or locatedin different countries: the VN and WN are either related or unrelated toeach other.

Any individual or multiple PSIM may be built-in additionally oralternatively into any WD or any such other wireless device, such as(but not limited to) so called “handsets”, “handy”, “mobile phones”,“cellular phones”, “wireless phones”, “smart phones”, “wirelessdevices”, “wireless PC cards”, “wireless modules” in any availablecurrent and future wireless technologies.

The PSIM may be built into a WDvn; the PSIM at power-on selects a presetor user set default subscriber identity. Optionally, the PSIM will storein its internal temporary memory the user set Personal IdentificationNumber (PIN) unlock code corresponding to its internal subscriberidentities; each subscriber identify corresponds to a unique phonenumber. When the PSIM switches between its internal subscriberidentities, the user does not have to enter each time the correspondingPIN except once after power-on of the WDvn and consequently power downof the PSIM. In the event this optional function is available within thePSIM, then the PSIM will at each power-on also reset the value of itsinternal temporary PIN memories. The WD device user has the option tomanually switch between each subscriber identity manually, if available,through an internal user menu embedded in the PSIM; e.g. switch to theone specific subscriber identity when the WD is in idle mode, allowingthe WD to locate update to the VN or WN with this specific identity andmonitor for any incoming traffic assigned to the such specificsubscriber identity. It can then switch to a different specificsubscriber identity, allowing the WDvn to locate update to the VN or WNwith the second subscriber identity, prior to initiating some or all ofthe outgoing traffic from the WDvn, assigned to the second subscriberidentity. When ending any outgoing traffic, the PSIM will automatically(or alternatively by means of an embedded user menu within the PSIM, oroptionally manually by the WDvn user), allow the WDvn to locate updateto the VN or WN with the first mentioned subscriber identity forlocation updates and thus be able to receive incoming traffic and/orsignalling assigned to the first subscriber identity.

The two different SIMs can be built into a WDvn. The WDvn at power-onselects a preset or user set default subscriber identity module (SIM).Optionally the WDvn will store in its internal temporary memory the userset Personal Identification Number (PIN) unlock code corresponding toits internal subscriber identities; each subscriber identify correspondsto a unique phone number, such that when the WDvn switches between itstwo internal subscriber identities the user does not have to enter eachtime the corresponding PIN except once after power-on of the WDvn andconsequently power down of the SIMs. In the event this optional functionis available within the WDvn, then the WDvn will at each power-on alsoreset the value of its internal temporary PIN memories. The WD deviceuser has the option to manually switch between each subscriber identitymodule manually, if available, through an internal user menu or presethotkey embedded in the WDvn. For example, the user can switch to the onespecific subscriber identity module (SIML) when the WD is in idle mode,allowing the WD to locate update to the VN or WN with this specificsubscriber identity module (SIML) and monitor for any incoming trafficassigned to the such specific subscriber identity (SIML). The user canthen switch to a different specific subscriber identity module (SIMR),allowing the WDvn to locate update to the VN or WN with the secondsubscriber identity module (SIMR), different to the first one, prior toinitiating some or all of the outgoing traffic by the WDvn assigned tosuch second subscriber identity module (SIMR). Thus, when ending anyoutgoing traffic the WDvn will automatically, (or alternatively by meansof an embedded user menu within the WDvn or alternatively if availableembedded in one or both subscriber identity modules (SIML and/or SIMR),or optionally manually by the WDvn user), allow the WDvn to locateupdate to the VN or WN with the first mentioned subscriber identitymodule (SIML) for location update and thus allow the WDvn to receiveincoming traffic and/or signalling assigned to the first subscriberidentity (SIML).

Another implementation involves a method for interfacing andinterconnecting a virtual wireless network (VN) with a wireless network(WN); there is a proprietary architecture(s) of the VN and a proprietaryarchitecture of the interconnection between one or several proprietaryVN with one or several WN. The VN is capable of communicating with anyincoming and/or outgoing calling party and in particular communicatingfrom and to Wireless Devices (WDvn) with a built in PSIM associated withat least two or more VN, or alternatively communicating from and toWireless Devices (WDvn) with a built in PSIM associated with at leastone or more VN and at least one or more WN. The proprietary virtualnetwork architecture (VN) is capable of communicating with Wirelessdevices (WDvn) through Wireless Networks (WN) and/or through PublicAccess Networks (PAN), through a wireless interfaces (IF-B) and/or awired interface (IF_C) respectively.

-   -   WDvn, WD, WD1 to WDn are wireless devices and/or wireless        handheld devices in any available current and future wireless        technologies respectively, with at least one or more Subscriber        Identity Modules (SIM) incorporated.    -   IF_B, IF_B1 to IF_Bn are wireless interfaces in any available        current and future wireless technologies respectively.    -   IF_C, IF_C1 to IF_Cn and IF_G, IF_G1 to IF_Gn and IF_H are wired        and/or wireless interfaces in any available current and future        wireless technologies respectively.    -   IF_A, IF_D, IF_E, IF_F, IF_I are digital interfaces in any        available current and future wireless technologies respectively.    -   WN, WN1 to WNn are wireless networks in any available current        and future wireless technologies respectively, with at least one        or more Radio Access Network (RAN) incorporated.    -   VN, VN1, VN2 to VNn are virtual wireless networks in any        available current and future wireless and/or digital        technologies respectively.

Any individual or multiple VN may be located in a different locationthan the WN it will interconnect and communicate with. Alternatively itmay be co-located or built-in additionally or alternatively into any WNor any such other wireless- or fixed-network.

Any individual or multiple VN may include all of the followingsub-modules or any single or multiple combination thereof or anequivalent of each such sub-module(s) performing a similar functionwithin the overall method of this invention:

Proprietary Sub-module; Home Location Register virtual network (HLRvn)

Sub-module; Home Location Register (HLR)

Sub-module; Equipment Identity Register (EIR)

Sub-module; Authentication Centre (AuC)

Sub-module; Intelligent Network (IN)

Sub-module; Prepaid and optionally Postpaid services and billing Centre(PREPOS)

Sub-module; Gateway “Mobile Switching Centre” Switch (GMSCS)

Sub-module; Media Gateway (MG)

A VN is made of a GMSCS which is connected and communicates with an HLR,EIR, and AuC, through an interface IF_D, and a MG and a IN through aninterface IF_E and IF_I respectively. The previously mentioned HLR isalso connected and communicates with a PREPOS. The VN can have twoexternal interfaces, IF_A and IF_C, interconnected and communicatingwith its internal GMSCS, to then interconnect and communicate with anexternal SMSCS of a WN and a PAN respectively.

A proprietary HLRvn is made of a HLR, EIR, and AuC, either integrated asone device or as individual devices interconnected and communicatingbetween them, and such previous mentioned HLR is also connected andcommunicating with a PREPOS. The HLRvn can have one external interface,IF_D, interconnected and communicating with its internal HLR, to theninterconnect and communicate with an external SMSCS of a WN.

A VN can be made of a single or multiple HLRvn. This VN has one externalinterface, IF_D, interconnected and capable of communicating with itsinternal HLR, to then interconnect and communicate with an externalSMSCS of a WN.

A VN can be made of a single or multiple HLRvn and a single or multipleMG. This VN has two external interface, IF_D and IF_E, interconnectedand capable of communicating with an external SMSCS of a WN.

Many modifications and variations of this present invention are possiblein view of the above disclosures, drawings and explanations. Thus, it isto be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, theinvention can be practiced other than as specifically described above.The invention which is intended to be protected should not, however, beconstrued as limited to the particular forms disclosed, orimplementation examples outlined, as these are to be regarded asillustrative rather than restrictive. Variations in changes could bemade by those skilled in the art without deviating from the spirit ofthe invention. Accordingly, the foregoing detailed descriptions anddrawings should be considered exemplary in nature and not limited to thescope and spirit of the invention as set forth in the claims.

1. Apparatus forming part of a virtual wireless network, the apparatusincluding a server running a home location register, the home locationregister being associated solely with a virtual wireless networkoperator that does not have any licensed frequency spectrum, butprovides wireless services to a subscriber by using the wirelessbasestations of a wireless network operator that does have licensedfrequency spectrum.
 2. Apparatus of claim 1, in which the subscriberoperates a wireless device with two or more IMSIs and the apparatus isoperable to manage remotely the selection of an appropriate IMSI on thedevice.
 3. Apparatus of claim 2, in which the apparatus decides on theappropriate IMSI based on lowest cost call routing.
 4. Apparatus ofclaim 2, in which the apparatus decides on the appropriate IMSI based onfeatures available when that IMSI is used.
 5. Apparatus of claim 2, inwhich it is the home location register that manages the remote selectionof an appropriate IMSI on the device.
 6. Apparatus of claim 1, includingmultiple home location registers.
 7. Apparatus of claim 1, including anequipment identity register sub-module.
 8. Apparatus of claim 1,including an authentication centre sub-module.
 9. Apparatus of claim 1,including a media gateway.
 10. Apparatus of claim 1, including aninterface to a public access network.
 11. Apparatus of claim 1,including a billing and services management module for pre and post paidend-users.
 12. Apparatus of claim 1, including a gateway mobileswitching centre switch.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1 including aninterface to enable communication with the wireless network operator.14. The apparatus of claim 1, including an interface to enablecommunication with any incoming calling party; and any outgoing callingparty registered with the home location register.
 15. The apparatus ofclaim 1, including an interface to enable communication using one ormore of the following: wireless networks public access networks; and viaone or more of the following: wireless interfaces and wired interfaces.16. Apparatus of claim 1, adapted to receive communications fromwireless devices that access the apparatus via the wireless basestationsof the wireless network operator.
 17. Apparatus of claim 1, adapted tocommunicate with a services mobile switching centre switch operated bythe wireless network operator.
 18. Apparatus of claim 17, including agateway mobile switching centre switch adapted to communicate with theservices mobile switching centre switch operated by the wireless networkoperator.